PAWNEE CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
POLICY STATEMENT
Approved and Adopted by Pawnee City Library Board
January 21, 2013
Amended March 3, 2014
Amended July 7, 2014
Amended October 5, 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
USE OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
A.
USE PRIVILEGES
B.
UNATTENDED CHILD POLICY
B.
HOURS OPEN
C.
HOLIDAYS
D.
CHECK-OUT AND RENEWALS
E.
FINES
F.
FEES
G.
CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY RECORDS
H.
VOLUNTEER POLICY
I.
MEETING ROOM USE
J.
LIBRARY TOURS
K.
EXHIBITS AND DISPLAYS
L.
GIFT POLICY
M.
GENEALOGY AND REFERENCE REQUESTS
N.
PHOTO COPIER / FAX / PRINTER
O.
MICROFILM READER-PRINTER
P.
VIDEO CASSETTES AND DVDS
Q.
PUBLIC-ACCESS COMPUTER, INTERNET RULES &WIRELESS
R.
NOTICE OF DENIAL OF LIBRARY SERVICE
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PAGE 7 & 8
PAGE 9
SERVICES - PROGRAMS
A.
INTERLIBRARY LOAN
B.
PROGRAMMING
C.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND PUBLICITY
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PAGE 10
LIBRARY'S PHYSICAL FACILITIES
A.
GENERAL STATEMENT
B.
COMMUNITY USE
C.
MAINTENANCE
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COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
A.
MATERIALS SELECTION POLICY
B.
OBJECTIVES OF A MATERIALS SELECTION POLICY
C.
GUIDELINES FOR SELECTION
D.
GUIDELINES FOR DE-SELECTION (WEEDING)
E.
CHALLENGED MATERIALS
F.
REVISION OF POLICY
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APPENDICES
o NOTICE OF DENIAL OF LIBRARY SERVICE
o CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT FORM
o REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
o CHECKLIST FOR LIBRARY BOARDS RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
o EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND SAFETY POLICY
o LIBRARY FINANCIAL POLICY
o VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM
o MEETING ROOM USE REQUEST FORM
o MEETING ROOM LOG
o GIFT/DONATION LOG FOR PATRON
o INTERLIBRARY-LOAN USER FEES (ILL)
LIBRARY EQUIPMENT USE AGREEMENT
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PAWNEE CITY PUBIC LIBRARY POLICIES
I.
USE OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
A. USE PRIVILEGES
1. Materials may be used on the library premises by anyone.
2. Borrowing privileges are free to residents and city business owners of the City of
Pawnee City.
3. Citizens must re-register each year if not residents in the Pawnee City limits.
4. Children must include their parents or guardians name when registering and must
be of school age to get a card on their own.
5. Service will not be denied or abridged because of sex, age, and religion, racial,
social, economic, or political status.
6. The use of the library or its services may be denied temporarily for due cause.
(“Notice of Denial of Library Service”, appendices, p 14). Such cause may be
failure to return books or to pay penalties, destruction of library property, or any
objectionable disturbance. Unreturned items or significant overdues incurred by a
family or individual will result in loss of library privileges including computer usage.
7. Guidelines for Patron Behavior: The Library Board of Trustees of the Pawnee City
Public Library has approved these rules/guidelines in an effort to set a standard of
acceptable behavior conductive to appropriate public library use. Section 51-212
if the Nebraska Statures specifically give public libraries the power to regulate the
use of the library and to exclude from the library persons who violate of refuse to
comply with the library’s rules and regulations. The library is not a playground,
recreation center or day care facility. Noisy or physically active behavior
appropriate in such facilities is not appropriate in the library. Acceptable standards
of behavior include but are not limited to this list.
a. Library users shall respect the rights of the staff and other patrons
and shall not behave in any manner that can reasonably be
expected to disturb other persons. Patrons shall not interfere with
the right of others to use the library or with the employees’
performance of duties. Examples of prohibited behavior include but
are not limited to: noisy or boisterous activities, staring at or
following another person, singing or talking loudly to self or others,
making threats of any bind, destroying property.
b. Speaking should be kept to normal conversational levels. Audio
equipment shall not be audible to other people. Cell phone ringers
should be off. Cell phone conversation is limited to the lobby.
c. Sleeping in the library is NOT allowed,
d. Weapons of any kind are NOT allowed.
e. Use of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs is prohibited. Patrons
showing signs of drunkenness or drug abuse will be asked to leave
the premises.
f. Pets are prohibited; service animals are welcome.
g. Shirts and shoes must be worn in the library.
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B. UNATTENDED CHILD POLICY
It is not the Library’s function or purpose to provide supervision or care for children. Parents
should be aware that the library is a public building open to all individuals. The following
policy has been designed to communicate the Library’s concern for the safety and welfare of
the children it serves.
1.
Parents and guardians are, at all times, responsible for the conduct and safety of
their children on Library premises. They must provide appropriate supervision
based on the ages, abilities and levels of responsibility of their children. Under no
circumstances will the library assume custodial responsibility for any child.
2. Children under age 8 should not be left unattended in the Library at any time.
3. Children, like all library users, are required to respect Library property, and act in
a manner appropriate to the use and function of the Library. Children who are not
using the Library appropriately, or who require excessive staff attention or
supervision, may be asked to leave.
4. At closing time, during power failures, or other emergencies, departure from the
building is necessary. Children left alone in the library, or on library grounds could
be vulnerable. Every effort will be made to contact parents prior to closing. Staff
members will remain with a child left unattended at closing time. If the child is not
picked up after 15 minutes, the sheriff will be called. Staff will wait with the child
until the police arrive. Under no circumstances will a staff member leave the
building with a child.
C.
HOURS OPEN
1. The library will be open to the public a minimum of 36 hours per week.
2. The decision to close the library for special events will be made by the librarian
and the President of the Library Board, or City Hall.
3. The librarian may close the library because of storms or other problems and report
the occasion at the next library board meeting.
4. The library will observe holidays recognized by the city.
5. Hours are posted on the front door and may vary.
D.
HOLIDAYS
1. If a holiday falls on a Sunday it will be observed on a Monday, and if a holiday falls
on a Saturday it will be observed on the preceding Friday. The following holidays
shall be observed by the City of Pawnee City, and all municipal employees shall
receive pay for the holidays if the holiday falls on a working day:
a. January 1 (New Year’s Day)
b. Good Friday
c. Memorial Day (the City will observe the same day that is observed
by the business establishments of Pawnee City)
d. July 4 (Independence Day)
e. Labor Day
f. Veterans Day
g. Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after
h. Christmas (starting at noon Christmas Eve – Christmas Day)
i. Floating Holiday (employees birthday, or choice)
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E. CHECKOUT AND RENEWALS
1. All borrowers must have a registration card on file.
2. Most materials may be checked out for a 4 week period and available for a 2 week
renewal. New book releases are limited to a 2 week check out with no renewal.
DVD’s may be checked out for 1 week with no renewal. VHS may be checked out
for 1 week with one week renewal available. Cake pans may be checked out for 1
week and non-seasonal pans may be renewed.
3. There is a limit of six books or audio books per person. Limit on videos and DVD’s
are five per person.
4. Other time or amount limits will be at the discretion of the librarian.
5. Irreplaceable and/or valuable materials will be circulated with the permission of the
librarian.
6. Interlibrary-loan materials will be ordered and checked out with the understanding
that the patron will pay the return postage and any applicable fee.
F. FINES
1. All fines will be set by the Library Board at the recommendation of the librarian and
will be reviewed by the Library Board each year.
2. Fines for overdue materials will be levied at the rate of 5 cents a day per item or
25 cents a week, regardless of the number of books or items. Videos are fined at
25 cents a day per tape. Cake pans are 25 cents a day for non-renewable ones.
Maximum book fine is $3.00, DVD or VHS is $2.50.
3. A person who fails to return or replace overdue or lost library materials is guilty of
a Class V misdemeanor (Refer to “Nebraska Laws Pertaining to Libraries and
Library Operations” Chapter 51 Section 109) and may be subject to civil action in
the County Court at the discretion of the Library Board. (Refer to “Nebraska Laws
Pertaining to Libraries and Library Operations” Chapter 51 Section 214).
4. Prior to any legal action, every attempt will be made to recover overdue materials
directly from the patron.
5. A fine automatically stops on a lost item when the loss is reported to the library.
The borrower is obligated to pay for or replace the lost item after 30 days.
G. FEES
1. Registration fees for non-city residents of Pawnee City are $20.00 per year per
household.
2. Borrowers are charged postage and any applicable fees for Interlibrary Loan
material.
3. Photocopies are 10 cents a copy and computer print-outs are 10 cents each after
the first copy, and color copies are 25 cents each.
4. Fax fees are a donation of $1.00 for the first page and $0.50 for additional pages.
5. Obituary and Research fees are $5.00 per request.
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H. CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY RECORDS
1. State law stipulates privacy and confidentiality of all library records. In a library,
the right to privacy is the right to open inquiry without having the subject of one’s
interest examined or scrutinized by others. Confidentiality exists when a library is
in possession of personally identifiable information about users and keeps the
information private on their behalf.
2. The library does not disclose or distribute users’ names, postal addresses, email
addresses, phone numbers, borrower’s records, computer use records, or other
personal information to outside parties unless required to do pursuant to
subpoena, court order, or where otherwise required to do so by law.
3. The library staff will disclose information about or contained in a user’s library
account or circulation records to the user, and only the user, upon presentation of
the user’s identification.
4. Library staff, board members and volunteers must be familiar with and abide by all
other applicable guidelines for how to appropriately respond to requests for
confidential information, whether it is from law enforcement or individuals. A
confidentiality form will be signed by all library board members, staff and library
volunteers. (Refer to Appendices, page 15 Confidentiality Form).
I.
VOLUNTEER POLICY
1. The Library Board and the Library Director oversee the Volunteer Program. This
program enhances the library service by supplementing, not replacing, library
staff. Volunteer assistance helps to provide new services and expand present
ones. Volunteers are expected to be reliable when they have committed to a
particular time and assignment. Confidentiality is required by all volunteers;
sharing of any information or observations of library patrons is prohibited. Please
respect the right to privacy of our patrons and employees. Volunteers will be
asked to sign a confidentiality agreement form. (See Appendices, page 15).
a. Eligibility: Open to persons 12 years of age or older, with a signed
parental permission form for all persons under 18 years of age.
Potential volunteers must complete an application (See Appendices,
page 20) and give written permission for the Library to conduct a
criminal background check. Individuals seeking to complete courtordered community service may be accepted according to the
nature of their offense and the current needs of the Library.
b. Standards: Similar to paid employees, volunteers may be
dismissed for any number of reasons, including undependability,
absenteeism, inability to perform assigned tasks and assuming
duties not assigned by their supervisor.
c. Manner and Attitude: When working with the public, volunteers are
expected to be pleasant and courteous.
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J. MEETING ROOM USE
1. The Pawnee City Public Library meeting room shall be available for public
meetings, and educational, civic and cultural purposes for groups and
organizations. It is open to all groups in the community regardless of the beliefs
and affiliation of their members. Groups may restrict attendance to their own
membership. Pawnee City Public Library does not advocate or endorse the
viewpoints of meetings or meeting-room users.
2. The library reserves the right to restrict use of the room if that will interfere with
routine library operations.
3. There is no fee to use the meeting room. Groups using the meeting room may not
charge admission, but may charge a reasonable supply fee to recover the cost of
materials, handouts, craft-making supplies, refreshments, etc.
4. A calendar of the room schedule is kept at the library circulation desk. Advance
scheduling and approval by the library staff is required. Scheduling priority is given
to library programs and to meetings scheduled by City agencies. To arrange for
the use of the meeting room, contact the Library to reserve the date and time.
Recurring reservations are accepted for a calendar year. If you are planning to
meet more than twelve times per year, reservations shall be made only by special
arrangements with the Library Director. If your meeting is canceled, the Library
must be notified as soon as possible so the room is available to others.
5. A representative of the group needs to complete the “Meeting Room Use
Request" form. (See Appendices, page 21). When reserving the meeting room, an
adult sponsor must take the responsibility for the use and condition of the room.
6. Groups may use the meeting room any time during the regular scheduled library
hours. Meetings held outside the Library’s regular hours require special advance
arrangements with the Library Director.
7. The user group is responsible for repair and/or replacement cost associated with
any damages. Each user is responsible for leaving the room in good condition
and complete the MEETING ROOM LOG form (appendices p. 22)
8. The library is not liable for injuries to people and does not assume responsibility
for damaged, lost, or stolen property of users of the meeting room. Individuals and
groups using the meeting room are responsible for all property they bring into the
meeting room. Users must remove their items immediately after their meeting.
Storage is not provided for equipment owned by groups using the meeting room
unless approved by the board.
9. The library has a selection of equipment and services available for use in the
meeting room, including a lectern, television w/DVD player, cable TV, computer
projector and screen, white board, and Internet access. Meeting room users are
responsible for any such equipment used in the meeting room.
10. Facilities include 1 exit (no access to the library), two restrooms, table space for
35-40 people, and kitchenette (with a coffee pot, microwave and refrigerator). A
group may serve light refreshments, but meals may not be served. No alcohol or
smoking is permitted in the meeting room or on the library grounds.
11. Any exceptions to these policies will be considered by the Library Board on a
case-by-case basis and must be requested at least 4 weeks prior to the
anticipated meeting date.
12. Groups that meet before 9:30am and continue during library hours and/or groups
that meet morning or afternoon while the library is open must use alternate parking
rather than the library parking lot
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K.
LIBRARY TOURS
1. Library talks and tours are available with advance notice and are free of charge.
L.
EXHIBITS AND DISPLAYS
1. No poster, display, exhibit, pamphlet, brochure, leaflet, booklet, etc. shall be
exhibited in the library for distribution without permission from the library director.
2. The library assumes no responsibility for preservation, protection or possible
damage or theft of any item displayed or exhibited in the library. All items placed
in the library are done so at the owner’s risk.
3. Whenever possible, displays or exhibits utilizing the display areas shall
incorporate books or materials from the library’s collection which have a
relationship to the subject on display.
4. No political posters shall be allowed or any type of solicitation, collection, business
or job seeking material will be displayed.
M.
GIFT POLICY
The Pawnee City Public Library welcomes gifts of library materials, money or real property.
These gifts help enrich and improve public library resources.
1. Unrestricted gifts of money will be gratefully accepted by the Board. Other
donations, such as restricted cash gifts, land, property, etc., will be reviewed by
the Library Director and Board before acceptance.
2. Memorial gifts of money, books or other library materials may be donated in honor
of a friend or relative and are marked with a special bookplate. The Library staff
will be pleased to select appropriate titles.
3. Used books and paperbacks can often be used in the library’s collection. Items
not needed by the library are sold at a book sale sponsored by the Friends of the
Pawnee City Library.
4. Generally, the Library does not accept textbooks, or books in poor condition. The
Library reserves the right to refuse donations if the Library Director determines
they are not of use to the Library.
5. The Library applies the same criteria for evaluating gift items as it applies to
purchased material. Gifts will be withdrawn in the same manner as purchased
material. The Library does not accept responsibility for notifying donors of
withdrawal or replacement of gift items.
6. All gifts are tax deductible. A receipt for donation of materials will be provided
upon request (appendices p. 23). The Library does not place a financial value on
materials received. For artwork, rarities or other materials of value a gift donation
form may be requested and kept on file.
7. No gifts are accepted unless given to the Library without restriction. All gifts may
be utilized, sold or disposed of in the best interest of the Library.
N.
GENEALOGY AND REFERENCE REQUESTS
1. The library is able to answer limited queries with an enclosed self-addressed
stamped envelope.
2. The minimum fee for searching microfilm is $5.00. Each obituary per name is
$5.00.
3.
4. Genealogy request of obituaries can be forwarded to: Nebraska State Historical
Society, 1500 R Street, Lincoln, NE 6850.
5. Refer to Nebraska State Genealogical Society’s “A Research Guide to
Genealogical Data in Johnson County, Nebraska and Pawnee County,
Nebraska”.
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O. PHOTOCOPIER/FAX/PRINTER
1. The photocopier and fax machine are to be operated by staff or designated
persons only.
2. The librarian may limit the quantity of copies printed at his/her discretion.
P. MICROFILM READER-PRINTER
1. Users must be of Junior High age or at the discretion of the Librarian.
2. All copies are 25 cents each.
Q.
VIDEO CASSETTES & DVDS
1. Anyone who holds a current registration at the Pawnee City Library may check out
a VHS or DVD.
2. VHS tapes can be checked out for 1 week and may be renewed.
3. DVD’s may be checked out for 1 week with no renewal.
4. Five VHS tapes or DVDs may be checked out at one time.
5. Three VHS tapes or DVDs may be put on the reserve list at one time.
6. VHS tapes and DVDs are not interlibrary loaned outside of Pawnee County.
7. A fine of 25 cents per day will be collected for late VHS tapes and DVDs
(maximum fine of $2.50)
R.
PUBLIC - ACCESS COMPUTERS, INTERNET RULES & WIRELESS
1. Pawnee City Public Library offers free public - access to the computer lab and
Internet. Access to the wireless Internet is available 24 hours a day.
2. The Library staff is not responsible for providing in-depth training on the Internet or
other computer functions; however, computer classes are offered. The staff will
do its best to introduce the basics of the Internet or other in-house computer
programs to patrons, and they may be able to answer simple questions. Due to
other library activities and staff schedules, help may not always be available.
3. The Library, in compliance with CIPA, has installed a technology protection
measure (TPM) on all library computers that have Internet access. All Internet
resources accessible through the Library are within legal limits established by the
Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and provided equally to all users, with the
understanding that it is the individual user’s responsibility to demonstrate good
judgment, respect for others, and appropriate conduct while using the Pawnee
City Public Library resources and facilities.
4. The Library staff will not supervise Internet session of any patron regardless of
age. The Pawnee City Public Library does not closely monitor and has no control
over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible
for its content.
5. Patrons may access the library’s Internet connection via library owned or personal
devices. Headphones may be checked out at the circulation desk. Patrons who
access the Internet using personal devices with wireless connectivity must abide
by all library Rules of Conduct.
6. Users should be aware of the limitation of the Internet filtering devices. While
designed to restrict access to Internet content that could be deemed inappropriate,
these systems are no substitute for individual judgment and/or parental
involvement and oversight.
7. Filters may block sites that have legitimate research value, as well as allowing
some content which some may find objectionable. The library staff may disable the
filtering device to provide patrons, age 17 and above, access to sites needed for
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bona fide research or other lawful purposes. These patrons must provide proof of
birth date to the staff, upon request, when they request the filter to be disabled.
8. Parents (including legal guardians) are responsible for the Internet information
selected and/or accessed by their children. Only parents have the right to restrict
their children from access to Internet resources available through the Library. If
they have concerns, they are encouraged to supervise in person their child’s
Internet session, or to ask Library staff to place an Internet restriction on their
library card. Parents may choose to deny their child’s access to the Internet, may
restrict their child to use only when parents are present, or may choose to do
nothing which places the responsibility for Internet choices with their child.
Parents should caution their minor children against sharing personal information
on the Internet.
9. All patrons using the Public-Access Computer and Internet are expected to follow
these Rules of Conduct:
a. Users must check in with the library staff to use the computers.
Users will usually be allowed a minimum of one hour, however
during heavy use times (3:30-6:00), use may be limited to 30
minutes if there is a waiting line.
b. The library’s computers and/or Internet connection may not be used
for illegal activity, or to access illegal materials.
c. Access to sites that are deemed harmful to minors, which display
any sexually explicit picture, graphic image file, or other visual is
prohibited to minors.
d. Library owned software will be managed by the library staff only.
e. Circulation software is not available for use in the computer lab.
f. Users will respect copyright laws and licensing agreements.
g. If asked to terminate their session, patrons must do so immediately.
Reasons for termination of a session include, but are not limited to,
behavior which is disruptive to library activities, misuse of
computers, improper disabling of TPM or filtering software,
damaging library property, illegal activity, etc. Any other situation
not addressed here will be at the discretion of the library director.
h. Users will respect the privacy of other users and will refrain from
attempting to view or read material being used by others.
i. Library staff may limit the number of users at any station based on
the disruption the users cause to normal library service.
j. All library policies relating to behavior in the library apply to
computer users. Computer users must comply with all applicable
city, state, and federal laws. Examples of laws include libel, privacy,
copyright, trademark, computer fraud, spamming, and child
pornography. Other laws may apply.
k. Statement: Digital media extraction, more commonly known as
stream ripping or stream recording, slows the speed of the internet,
adversely affecting the internet experience of others. Most
importantly, it is also a violation of copyright laws. Policy: Digital
media extraction is strictly prohibited while using internet provided
by the library. Anyone found to be participating in this practice while
using library provided internet may, at the discretion of the Library
Director, staff, or board, lose all library privileges.
10. Termination or Prohibition of User Access:
a. If a Library employee believes a user has failed to comply with the
Rules of Conduct, the computer user may be barred from the
current or subsequent session for up to two weeks from the date of
informing the user of that action. After presentation of the user’s
actions to the Library Board, a patron may be required to pay for
8
repair costs due to action of vandalism, or may be permanently
barred from further computer access at the Library.
b. Internet users whose access has been terminated or prohibited may
protest the action and/or appeal to the Board to be reinstated.
S. NOTICE OF DENIAL OF LIBRARY SERVICE
1. Patrons who do not obey the rules and regulations of the Pawnee City Public Library
or are unwilling to pay fines and/or fees for lost, late, or damaged library materials
may be sent or given a “Notice of Denial of Library Service” form (see appendices p.
14).
2. One copy will be given to the patron and a photocopy will be kept on file.
3. As this policy is meant to be a means to temporarily withdraw library services until
the patron’s obligations are met, it is also a first-step action in the permanent
withdrawal of library services to those patrons constantly abusing their library
privileges.
4. Permanent withdrawal of library services is up to the discretion of the librarian.
9
SERVICES - PROGRAMS
II.
A. INTERLIBRARY LOAN
1. The Library Board recognizes that no single library can meet all the demands in its
community. Libraries can, and should, work together, sharing their services and
resources to more fully meet the needs of their users.
2. This public library will at all opportunities cooperate with other libraries to strengthen
the services and resources of this library and other libraries.
3. Requests for Interlibrary loan material should be reviewed periodically to determine
if purchase of this material is advisable.
4. Patrons must be library card holders in good standing and submit an interlibrary loan
agreement form (see appendices p. 24).
5. Interlibrary loan should be used whenever possible to meet the needs of this
library’s patrons when our collection does not supply the requested materials.
6. Interlibrary loan should not take the place of providing an adequate collection of our
own.
7. Interlibrary loan protocols already established will be followed.
8. Interlibrary loan materials that are lost by the borrowing patron will be paid for by
that patron.
9. Patrons are required to pay for the return postage on any interlibrary loan item
received, whether or not they actually check out the item. When the lending library
assesses a borrowing charge, that charge will also be passed on to the patron.
10. When staff determines that any patron is abusing the interlibrary loan privilege, staff
may suspend that patron’s privileges.
B. PROGRAMMING
1. It is the policy of this library to cooperate closely with the local school libraries through
sharing of materials and Interlibrary-loan services, through efforts not to duplicate
materials unnecessarily, and by encouraging teachers to bring their classes to the
library for visits.
2. A summer reading program for children is to be offered, when reasonable, including
one or all of the following: Story Hour, Reading Clubs, Film Series.
3. Library programs receive first consideration in scheduling all events.
4. In the event of a conflict, preference is given to meetings which are free or open to the
public.
C.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND PUBLICITY
1. Information about library services and materials should be publicized in the local
newspaper, under "Library News" regularly and at least once a month if possible.
Patrons may visit the website or Facebook page for current information.
2. It is the policy of the library to make regular contacts with various organizations in the
community in order to acquaint them with library services available, to solicit their
suggestions for improved service and their aid in obtaining volunteers to assist in library
programs.
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III.
LIBRARY'S PHYSICAL FACILITIES
A.
GENERAL STATEMENT
1.
B.
COMMUNITY USE
1.
Groups must contact the Library to reserve the meeting room.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
C.
To achieve the goal of good library service, the Library Board accepts the
responsibility to see that the public library's building facilities are provided
for, maintained, and adequately meet the physical requirements of the
Library. Such facilities will offer to the community a compelling
invitation to enter, read, look, listen and learn. Every effort will be made to
provide facilities consistent with the program of library service.
Additional furniture or equipment other than that furnished by the library must be approved
by library staff.
No smoking is allowed.
Library programs receive first consideration in scheduling all events.
In the event of a conflict, preference is given to meetings which are free and/
or open to the public.
The library meeting room may not be reserved for commercial purposes.
Meeting Room policies are discussed more in Part I, Sec.I.
Use of the library phone by members of the public is restricted, except for emergencies as
determined by the staff, who will dial the necessary number to insure long-distance calls are
recorded appropriately. Cell phone ringers should be disabled in the library and quiet use of
cell phones is allowed if not disturbing to others. The library staff will not relay nonemergency calls or take messages for individuals using the library or attending events in the
library.
MAINTENANCE
1.
2.
3.
Interior cleaning (floors, dusting, bathroom, shelves etc.) shall be maintained by
housekeeper or library staff.
City workers maintain the heating, cooling, wiring, etc. and can be called upon
to change light fixtures.
Mowing and snow removal is maintained by the City workers.
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IV.
COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
A.
MATERIALS SELECTION POLICY
1.
2.
3.
4.
The purpose of the Pawnee City Public Library materials selection policy is to guide the
librarian and to inform the public about the principles upon which selections are made.
A policy cannot replace the judgment of librarians, but stating the intended policies will assist
the staff at the library in choosing from a vast array of available materials.
The library sets as its major goals in materials selection the following:
a. the advancement of knowledge;
b. the education and enlightenment of the people of the community;
c. the provision of recreational and leisure reading.
Basic to the policy is the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS as adopted by theAmerican Library
Association and this public library which states among other things:
"As a responsibility of library service, books and other reading matter selected should be
chosen for values of interest, information and enlightenment of all the people in the
community. In no case should any book be excluded because of the race or nationality or
the political or religious views of the writer. There should be the fullest practicable provision
of material presenting all points of view concerning the problems and issues of our times -international, national and local; and books or other reading matter of sound factual authority
should not be proscribed or removed from library shelves because of partisan or doctrinal
disapproval."
5.
B.
Final responsibility for book selection lies with the Library Director.
OBJECTIVES OF A MATERIALS SELECTION POLICY
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The primary objectives of materials selection shall be to collect materials of
contemporary significance and of permanent value.
The library will always be guided by a sense of responsibility to both present
and future in adding materials which will enrich the collection and maintain an
overall balance.
The library also recognizes an immediate duty to make available materials for
enlightenment and recreation, even though such material may not have enduring
interest or value.
The library will attempt to provide a representative sampling of all areas of
interest and will not attempt to acquire all books and other material on any one
subject.
The library recognizes that many items are controversial and that any given item
may offend some patrons. Selection will not be made on the basis of any anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the merits of the work in relation to
building a well-rounded collection and the serving the interests of the reader.
12
C.
GUIDELINES FOR SELECTION
1.
To build a collection of merit and significance, material must be measured by
objective guidelines. All acquisitions, whether purchased or donated, are considered in terms of the following criteria. Clearly, however, an item need not
meet all of the criteria in order to be accepted. When judging the quality of
materials, several criteria and combinations of criteria may be used, as
some materials may be judged primarily on artistic merit, while others are
considered because of scholarship, value as human documents, or ability to
satisfy the recreational and entertainment needs of the community.
GENERAL CRITERIA
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
2.
3.
D.
Suitability of physical form for library use
Insight into human and social conditions
Suitability of subject and style for intended audience
Present and potential relevance to community needs
Appropriateness and effectiveness of medium to content
Importance as a document of the times
Relation to existing collection and other material on subject
Interest and opinions of critics, reviewers, and public
Items having widespread demand may or may not meet the general and
specific criteria contained in this policy. However, demand is a vital factor
in selection, and it shall be considered an important factor in cases of books
on best seller lists for which there is persistent local demand.
The collection must include the various positions expressed on important,
complicated, or controversial questions, including unpopular or unorthodox
positions. The public library does not promote particular beliefs or views. It
provides a resource where the individual can examine issues freely and make
his own decisions.
GUIDELINES FOR DE-SELECTION (WITHDRAWALS / DISCARDS / WEEDING)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The Library uses weeding as a collection development tool. Its purpose is to maintain a
library collection of high quality that is appropriate in size and current, accessible and
appealing to users.
The Library is required to remove from its collection 3-5% of its materials annually to remain
eligible for the State of Nebraska Library Accreditation guideline #18
Items are withdrawn from the collection when they are dated, worn, or damaged beyond
repair, or if interest in a title or subject has decreased.
Withdrawn items will be disposed of through book sales, recycling, or donations. Items
deemed unfit for sale or donation will be discarded.
Items will be withdrawn from the collection database when they are reported as lost and
paid, or are missing for at least six months.
The library staff will make use of tested weeding guidelines like CREW (Continuous Review,
Evaluation, and Weeding).
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E.
CHALLENGED MATERIALS
The Pawnee City Public Library adheres to and wholly support the Library Bill of Rights and The
Freedom to Readstatements, both of which are considered as part of the Library’s selection policy.
The Board of Trustees has also adopted the American Library Association’s statements on:
Statement of Labeling, Diversity in Collection Development, Challenged Materials, Expurgation of
Library Materials, and Free Access to Libraries for Minors.
Process for Reconsideration of Library Materials
1. All challenges of materials are to be handled by the Director. An appointment may be set up
for the complainant to meet with the Director and another Staff person or Board member to
hear the complaint.
2. The Director will explain the general criteria of the Library’s selection policy to the
complainant. It should be made clear that the Library Board subscribes to the Freedom
Statements in this policy.
3. If the complainant wants to continue the procedure for reconsideration of materials they will
be requested to complete the form “Reconsideration of Library Materials”. (see appendices
p. 16)
4. After the Director receives the complete form, the Director shall appoint a committee of at
least three board members to evaluate the material in question using the patron’s request,
published review, and the Library polices for materials selection and will determine whether
the item in question meets the criteria, as specified in the selection policy, for being included
in the library’s collection. (see appendices p.17)
5. If the complainant if not satisfied with the committee decision, he/she may appeal to the
Board of Trustees within three weeks.
6. If the decision is appealed to the Board, the material in question and all supporting
information concerning the decision to purchase this material should be forwarded to the
Board for reconsideration. The Board’s decision is final.
F.
REVISION OF POLICY
1.
This policy will be reviewed bi-annually or as needed.
14
V. APPENDICES
15
NOTICE OF DENIAL OF LIBRARY SERVICE
DATE:____________________
PATRON:_________________
THE PERSON NAMED ABOVE HAS TEMPORARILY BEEN DENIED LIBRARY
PRIVILEGES AT THE PAWNEE CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY DUE TO THE
FOLLOWING REASON(S):
___EXCESSIVE OR LONG OVERDUE FINES.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
___LONG-OVERDUE BOOKS, VIDEOS, etc.THAT HAVENOT BEEN RETURNED.
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
___DAMAGED OR LOST ITEMS THAT NEED TO BE PAID FOR.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
___NON-RESIDENT REGISTRATION FEE IS DUE.
___OTHER
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________
PAWNEE CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD
P.O. Box 311 735 8th STREET
PAWNEE CITY, NE 68420-0311
(402) 852-2118
16
CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT
Below is a segment of the Library Board policy regarding
confidentiality. Please review it and if you agree to abide by this
policy, sign and date below. Thanks for understanding this important
aspect of public library work.
5.
Confidentiality of Library Records
a.
State law stipulates confidentiality of library records, i.e. Law 84-712.05, "Records which
may be withheld from the public" states that "The following records, unless publicly disclosed in an
open court, open administrative proceeding or open meeting or disclosed by a public entity pursuant
to its duties, may be withheld from the public by the lawful custodian of the records . . . (10)
Records or portions of records kept by a publicly funded library which, when examined with or
without other records, revealed the identity of any library patron using the library's materials.”
Name
Date
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
17
REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
DATE______________
TITLE________________________________________________________________________
BOOK__________PERIODICAL____________________OTHER__________________
AUTHOR__________________________PUBLISHER_________________________________
REQUEST INITIATED BY________________________________________________________
ADDRESS____________________________________________________________________
CITY_________________STATE_______ZIP CODE___________TELEPHONE_____________
DO YOU REPRESENT:
YOURSELF___________________________________________
AN ORGANIZATION (NAME) _____________________________
OTHER (NAME) ________________________________________
1.
To what in the work do you object?
2.
Will you identify exactly the passages or segments you feel to be objectionable and
state the grounds for your opinion?
3.
Did you read and examine the entire work?
4.
What do you believe to be the theme of this work?
5.
What do you feel might be the result of using this work?
6.
Is there anything good about this item?____________If so, what?
7.
Are you aware of the judgment of this item by professional critics?
8.
Would you recommend this material for any given age group?______Which?_________
9.
Do you feel harm would result from reading this item?___________If so, what harm?
10.
What would you like the library to do about this work?
11.
In its place, what work would you recommend that would convey as accurate or valuable
a picture and perspective of the subject treated?
SIGNATURE________________________________________________________
18
CHECKLIST FOR LIBRARY BOARD'S
RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
TITLE_______________________________________________________
AUTHOR____________________________________________________
A.
Purpose
1.
What is the overall purpose of the material?
2.
B
Is the purpose accomplished? _____Yes ____No
Authenticity
1.
Is the author competent and qualified in the field? ____Yes ____No
2.
What is the reputation and significance of the author and publisher/producer in
the field?
3.
4.
Is the material up-to-date? ___Yes ___No
Are information sources well documented? ___Yes ___No
C.
Appropriateness
1.
Does the material promote the goals and objectives of the library selection
policy? ___Yes ___No
2.
Are the illustrations appropriate to the subject and age levels? ___Yes ___No
D.
Content
1.
Is the content of this material well presented, by providing adequate scope?
range, depth, and continuity? ___Yes ___No
2.
Does this material present information not otherwise available? ___Yes ___No
3.
Does this material give a new dimension or direction to its subject? __Yes __No
E.
Reviews
1.
Source of Review
2.
Favorably reviewed? ___Yes ___No
3.
Does this title appear in one or more reputable selection aids? ___Yes ___No
If answer is yes, please list titles of selection aids.
Additional comments:
Recommendation:
Signatures:
Date:
19
PAWNEE CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Emergency Procedures
Tornado
If weather is threatening, library staff will monitor the weather via television and/or radio.
Tornado Watch
 Notify patrons in the library of the tornado watch.
 Review tornado warning procedures and location of shelter with patrons.
 Monitor weather conditions on television and/or radio.
 Get out flashlight and weather radio.
Tornado Warning
 Move all patrons to tornado shelter area.
o Basement if all patrons present are able-bodied.
o Men’s restroom if any patron is unable to use the stairs.
 Any patron who refuses to go to the shelter area must leave the library immediately.
 Lock inside front door.
 Take flashlight and radio to shelter.
 Everyone remains in the shelter until the warning expires.
Winter Storms




Monitor weather and road conditions via computer, television and/or radio.
Library staff member on duty can decide when conditions warrant closing the library.
Every effort will be made to contact the parent (or other responsible party) of unattended
children.
If parent cannot be contacted, the sheriff’s office will be called.
20
Pawnee City Public Library
Financial Policy
To insure fiscal accountability and insure appropriate use of funds in support of the
Library’s mission and goals the Library Board has established the following financial
policy.
l. The Library Director shall establish an annual budget from the funds allocated from the
city funds. Once approved by the Library Board then it will be submitted to the city clerk
for inclusion in the city budget.
2. After adoption by the City Council, the allocated funds will be made available in the city
library account for library materials and services beginning October 1 of each year.
3. After approval by the Library Board President, invoices will be forwarded to the city
clerk for payment. Claims can be submitted every two weeks. Invoices should be
submitted before Thursday so they can be included in the claims at the following Council
meeting on Monday.
4. On an annual basis, all library funds, expenditures and revenues will be audited as part
of the city audit. Any notes or communications from the city auditor regarding the Library
shall be communicated with the Board. Library finances will also be reported annually to
the Nebraska Library Commission using the annual Bibliostat statistical report.
5. Receipts:
a. Monies received as revenue by the Library will be submitted to the city as general
revenue and deposited in the Library Fund account. All donations to the library will be
subject to the Donation & Gift Policy.
b. Monies received as reimbursements for lost or damaged materials, computer
print outs, copies, and small donations for discarded materials, may be used to defray
expenses in these areas as well as appropriate program supplies, and serve as a petty
cash fund. The petty cash receipts and disbursements are to be reported in the Librarian’s
report on a bi-monthly basis.
c. Monies received as revenue for the Library Foundation will be turned over to the
Foundation treasurer to be deposited in the Union Bank accounts. Memorials and
bequests shall be subject to the Donation & Gift Policy.
Amended on July 7, 2014
21
VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM
Name:_____________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________
___________________________________________
Phone: _____________________________________________
_______
Summer Reading Volunteer
_______
Other
Days and Times Available:
Volunteer jobs we may ask you to do: (please check your preferences):
__________ Reading shelves (check to see if books are in order)
__________ Shelving books/straightening shelves
__________ Processing books
__________ Cleaning or yard work (dusting shelves, raking leaves, etc.)
__________ Special Projects
Computer experience
Yes
No
All volunteers with access to library records of the Pawnee City Public Library must comply with the
Library’s Policy on Confidentiality.
I, __________________________________ agree to keep confidential any information pertaining
to library patrons that I encounter as a result of my service to the Library. This includes, but is not
limited to information I may view on customer account records or customer inquiries handled by
staff or volunteers. As a potential volunteer, I understand the Pawnee City Public Library may
conduct a criminal and background check.
I attest that I have read and understand the Public Library’s Policy on Confidentiality and Volunteer
Policy.
____________________________________
Signature
_______________________________
Date
22
MEETING ROOM USE REQUEST
(We / I), the undersigned, have read and agree to the considerations relating to the use of
the Pawnee City Public Library’s meeting room, and related equipment. We will report the
library the number of attendees for the meeting(s) covered by this agreement.
Please complete this form and return to the check-out desk.
Date: _________________
Name of organization: _________________________________
Person reserving the room: _____________________________
Address: ____________________________________________
Phone: _________________ Date& time of meeting: ______________
Estimated attendance at the meeting: ________________
Meeting room used for: _______________________________________
I have read, accepted and been given a copy of the Meeting Room
Key Taken
________________________
Signature
________________________
Date
Key Returned
___________________________
Date
________________________
Library Staff Initials
23
Policy.
PAWNEE CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY MEETING ROOM LOG
___________________________
Group
________________________
Date & Time
___________________________
Contact
________________________
Phone
Date
Key
Pick-up
Key
Number
Returned Attended
Notes/Comments
Please return this log to the front desk after your meeting.
Donations Welcome
24
Staff
Pawnee City Public Library
Thank you for your donation!
Date: ___________________
Authorization:_____________________________
Donor:
___________________________________________________________
Items Donated
Quantity
Hardbacks
___________
Paperbacks
___________
VHS’s
___________
DVD’s
___________
CD’s
___________
Other
___________
PLEASE NOTE: This is the only record of your donations. I.R.S. Publication 526 explains the
provisions for determining value for the purposes of claiming charitable deductions for tax purposes.
Pawnee City Public Library
P.O. Box 311
25
Pawnee City, Ne 68420-0311
Pawnee City Public Library Patron Interlibrary Loan Agreement
__________________________________
____________
Last Name, First Name
(please print)
Library Card #
______________
Phone #
*I understand that fines for interlibrary loan items are $1.00 per day with no
maximum limit.
*I will pay one-way postage. Postage will be charged to my library card if requested
materials are not picked up.
*If an item is damaged or lost, I am subject to replacement cost set by the lending library.
*The following items may be difficult or impossible to be obtained through interlibrary loan:
New items
Rare/Genealogical items
Video/Audio/CD/DVD materials
*Textbooks will not be ordered via ILL without prior approval by the Director.
*I must abide by copyright restrictions.
*In order to request interlibrary loan items, I must have a current library card with no fines
or overdue items.
*To renew an interlibrary loan item, I must call 1 week prior to the due date. Some
items are not renewable.
*I will immediately return items that are recalled by the lending library.
*If there are extra charges about the postage amount, I will be contacted for my approval
before an item is ordered.
*I may order up to 5 interlibrary loan items at a time but may only have 3 interlibrary loan
items checked out at any given time.
*I agree to the above regulations for all items requested through interlibrary loan.
_____________________________________
_____________________
Signature
Date
26
Pawnee City Public Library Equipment Use Agreement
Please read the following information carefully before signing. This agreement must be
signed before any equipment may be checked out to you.
Items will be checked out from and returned to the Pawnee City Public Library. Do NOT use the
book crop box when returning items.
Must have current library card and be in good standing to check out equipment.
Borrowing is on a first-come-first-served basis.
All equipment may be borrowed for 2 days (48 hours).
No renewals allowed. When an item is returned, please wait 24 hours before checking equipment
out again.
Overdue fines are $5 an hour, with a maximum fine of $25. Overdue notices are sent as a
courtesy only.
While equipment is in your possession, you are responsible for it at all times. You may not loan it
to anyone else. DO NOT LEAVE EQUIPMENT UNATTENDED. If equipment is not returned, or
is returned damaged, you will be responsible for the cost of the repairs or the replacement cost of
that item.
All parts of the equipment must be present before check in can be completed. Fines are not waived
for overdue equipment caused by missing pieces.
I have read this entire document and my signature below indicates my agreement with the above
statements.
Equipment checked out _________________________________________________
X_____________________________________
(Signature)
Date _________________
Last Name _____________________________
(Please print)
Patron Number __________________
First Name ___________________
Phone ___________________________
Email Address ______________________________________________
27